Vicki Newman

Potentially-lethal chemicals have been stolen after a burglary at a farmhouse in South Hetton.

The break-in happened overnight on Friday, December 4. Among other items, two five litre tubs of a poison called Cymag were taken.

The containers are described as similar to paint tubs and are orange and red in colour and contain a white powder. The tins, one of which is believed to be empty, have wording on them in black text with a cream background, along with the poison and some other unknown warning markers.

If the powder comes into contact with water it turns into the lethal gas hydrogen cyanide.

A tin of ‘Sheepdip’ de-licing product was also stolen. This is described as a metal tin made either by the manufacturer ‘Osmans’ or ‘Tippers’. While not considered as hazardous as the Cymag, this can also be dangerous if it is ingested or comes into contact with skin.

Det Sgt Tony Elliott said: “We urgently need to trace the location of the tubs of Cymag and Sheepdip. If anyone has information about the whereabouts of these chemicals, they must not approach them but instead call 999 and ask to speak to the police.

“We are also appealing to whoever took the items to tell us where they are. Do not attempt to return them as this could put you, as well as others, at serious risk.”

Anyone with information about the stolen items is asked to contact the police on 999.